Nissan Pathfinder Hybrid Gives 526-Mile Range in a 7-Passenger SUV

NissanNissanJapan, 1932 > present159 models
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has debuted its fourth generation PathfinderNissan Pathfinder ConceptJapan, 2012 > present2 photos
Hybrid at the New York Auto Show.  It offers all of the advantages of a seven-passenger SUV with 26mpg highway fuel economy and a 526-mile maximum range.

Power comes from a supercharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a hybrid powertrain and lithium-ion battery. Net power is 250hp and 243lb-ft, which is less power but more torque than V6 version.

The electric motor is attached to the drivetrain via two clutches, which allow it to run completely from the electric motor for short distances. The only transmission option will be a CVT. The Pathfinder Hybrid gets 25mpg US city and 27mpg US highway.

The battery pack is stored under the third row of seats to keep it from affecting interior cargo space.

The hybrid also gets LED taillights and an interior information display for what the hybrid system is doing.

Even with the hybrid, the car will still have selectable all-wheel drive with two-wheel drive, auto and four-wheel drive modes. The hybrid also retains a 3,500lbs towing capacity.

The Pathfinder Hybrid will be available in three trim levels – SV, SL and Platinum – and prices will start $3,000 above the non-hybrid version and will go on sale in the second half of 2013.